Essential Japanese Phrases for Singapore Expats: Homejourney Guide

Essential Japanese phrases empower Japanese expats moving to Singapore from Japan to build connections, navigate daily life, and feel at home quickly. This Homejourney cluster guide provides actionable phrases tailored for expats, linking back to our pillar Moving to Singapore from Japan: Complete Expat Guide. As Singapore's trusted real estate platform, Homejourney prioritizes your safety through verified communities and transparent advice.[3]

Why Japanese Expats Need Essential Phrases in Singapore

Japan's structured society contrasts Singapore's multicultural vibrancy, where English dominates but Japanese communities thrive. Over 7,000 members join Japanese Meetup groups like Japanese Meetup @Singapore and Totemo Japan, hosting language exchanges at places like Tanjong Katong.[1] Knowing key phrases helps expats greet locals, order food, and network at InterNations events for Japanese in Singapore.[2]

Homejourney verifies these networks to ensure safe, trustworthy interactions. Japanese expats often seek properties in Orchard or Holland Village—use our Property Search ">Property Search for verified rentals near these hubs.[3]

Core Japanese Phrases for Daily Expat Life

Master these essential Japanese phrases for greetings, shopping, and transport. Practice with Romanized pronunciation for ease.

• Greetings: "Konnichiwa" (Hello, daytime); "Konbanwa" (Good evening); "Arigatou gozaimasu" (Thank you).
• Shopping/Property Viewings: "Kore wa ikura desu ka?" (How much is this?); "Mieru kashimasu ka?" (Can I view it?). Ideal for Homejourney listings.
• Directions: "Eki wa doko desu ka?" (Where is the station?); "Migi ni magatte kudasai" (Turn right, please).[4]

These Japanese phrases bridge cultural gaps. For families, see our related guide Japanese Phrases for Kids: Family Travel Guide by Homejourney ">Japanese Phrases for Kids: Family Travel Guide.[3]

Phrases for Property Hunting and Rentals

Japanese expats favor condos (foreigners pay 60% ABSD on purchases).[3] Use these at viewings:

1. "Chintai ryōkin wa nan desu ka?" (What is the rental price?).
2. "Kōri no yoyaku o shite mo ii desu ka?" (Can I make a reservation?).
3. "Eki made aruku doryōku wa nan pun desu ka?" (How many minutes walk to the station?).

Search safe options via Homejourney's Projects Directory ">Projects Directory. Popular spots: Japanese School at 1 Clementi (20-min from Holland V condos).[3]

Phrases for Building Community Connections

Singapore hosts vibrant Japanese networks. Join Japanese Association Singapore in Tanjong Katong for events.[5] Key phrases:

• "Yoroshiku onegaishimasu" (Pleased to meet you).
• "Issho ni tabemasen ka?" (Shall we eat together?).
• "Meetup ni sanka shitai desu" (I want to join the meetup).[1]

InterNations offers monthly events; say "Sumimasen, korera no ibento ni tsuite oshiete kudasai" (Excuse me, tell me about these events).[2] Homejourney connects you to verified groups, ensuring trust and safety.

Dining and Social Phrases

Enjoy Japanese spots with "Oishii desu!" (Delicious!). For fusion eateries, check Best Japanese Restaurants in Singapore: Essential Dining Phrases & Guide ">Best Japanese Restaurants in Singapore. Order: "Miso shiru o kudasai" (Miso soup please).[4]

Practical Phrases for Settling In

Navigate services with these Japan language tips:

• Banking: "Kōza o hiraku shitai desu" (I want to open an account). Visit DBS in Marina Bay; compare rates at Bank Rates ">Bank Rates.
• Transport: "MRT ni noru tokoro wa doko desu ka?" (Where do I board the MRT?). From Changi Airport, take MRT Exit A (45-min to city).[3]
• Healthcare: "Byōin o sagashite imasu" (I'm looking for a hospital). Expats use Mount Elizabeth (Orchard Rd).

For maintenance in rentals, book via Aircon Services ">Aircon Services. Flights back: Tokyo-Singapore 7 hours, SGD 800 return via ANA.[3]

Actionable Steps to Learn and Use Phrases

Follow this framework:

1. Daily Practice: Use apps for 10-min sessions focusing on learn Japanese travel phrases.
2. Real-World Test: Attend Meetup @Singapore (7,379 members).[1]
3. Property Integration: Practice during Homejourney viewings in expat areas like River Valley.
4. Track Progress: Join language exchanges like Aspiring Bilingual Speakers (2,267 members).[1]

These steps build confidence. For budget tips, see Budget Travel Guide to Japan: Essential Phrases & Money-Saving Tips ">Budget Travel Guide to Japan.

FAQ: Essential Japanese Phrases for Singapore Expats

Q: What are the top 3 essential Japanese phrases for new expats in Singapore?
A: "Konnichiwa" (hello), "Arigatou" (thank you), "Sumimasen" (excuse me). Use at Meetups and property viewings.[1][4]

Q: Where can Japanese expats practice phrases in Singapore?
A: Japanese Meetup @Singapore (7,379 members) or InterNations events. Homejourney verifies safe groups.[1][2]

Q: Are there Japanese phrases for renting property in Singapore?
A: Yes, "Chintai wa ikura desu ka?" (How much is rent?). Search via Property Search ">Homejourney Property Search.[3]

Q: How do Japanese phrases help with Singapore transport?
A: "Eki wa doko?" (Where is the station?). MRT from Changi takes 45 min to CBD.[3][4]

Q: Best communities for Japanese using these phrases?
A: Japanese Association (Tanjong Katong) and Totemo Japan group (3,732 members).[1][5]

Ready to master Japanese phrases and relocate? Explore verified properties on Homejourney's Property Search ">Property Search and connect safely. Dive deeper in our pillar Moving to Singapore from Japan: Complete Expat Guide. Homejourney listens to your feedback for trusted journeys—start today!

References

1. Singapore Property Market Analysis 3 (2026)
2. Singapore Property Market Analysis 1 (2026)
3. Singapore Property Market Analysis 2 (2026)
4. Singapore Property Market Analysis 4 (2026)
5. Singapore Property Market Analysis 5 (2026)